• ProtonVPN

  • Our Score 8.3
  • User Rating

Proton VPN Review

Founded by the company behind the world’s most extensive encrypted email system, Proton VPN
is all about privacy. As a Swiss-born brand intent on protecting global internet users,
customers can rely on a VPN with the tightest security measures. Speedy torrenting, seamless
streaming, access to the Tor network, open-source software, and a host of intelligent
features are also added to make Proton a worthy choice for VPN users.

Yet, as we will discover, there are a few essentials missing from
the premium package. We delve into the provider’s offering and discover whether Proton has
what it takes to compete with the VPN elite.

Proton VPN Figures
  • 1,700+ servers, 60+ countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • Free VPN option with 150+ servers, three countries
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Prices start at €4.99 per month

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ProtonVPN Plans
1 Month€9.99/mo
12 Months€5.99/mo
2 Years€4.99/mo
Available on

  • Introducing Proton VPN

As the story goes, the idea for Proton arose in the cafeteria at
CERN, the European Center for Nuclear Research. A handful of scientists came together in
2014 to develop an online platform
that would shield activists and journalists from prying eyes. After raising $500,000 in
a crowdfunding campaign, Proton Mail was launched to the public, which still remains the
most
well-known secure email service in the business. Three years later, the team developed a
VPN to provide even more digital protection to their customers.

In keeping with the company’s commitment to
making privacy and security accessible to all, two versions of Proton VPN are available;
the premium paid package and the stripped-down
free alternative. The latter offers a great starting point for beginners new to the VPN
world, as users can enjoy a taste of the benefits without spending a dime.
Subsidized by paying members, the free plan naturally includes a lot less than the
premium bundle, with slower speeds on account of fewer servers and locations.
Plus, it can only be used on one device. However, the no-logging policy still applies,
as does the unlimited data allowance and the removal of adverts,
which is relatively uncommon among free VPNs.

How Accessible and Easy to Use is Proton VPN?

In such a competitive VPN market, industry leaders are answering
the demands of customers by linking their products to a vast array of devices.
So far, Proton VPN isn’t quite up to speed in this department, with the VPN only
currently compatible with the following platforms:

  • Apps: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers
  • Streaming devices and games consoles: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Chromecast

Customers may be a little disappointed at the lack of options, especially in comparison
to the likes of ExpressVPN and NordVPN, and in particular with the absence of browser
extensions.
Similarly, going without a smart DNS function for unblocking content on Apple TV and
other devices may force some users to look elsewhere. Of all the applications, the
Windows package
is the most complete, with alternative apps void of certain features. For example, the
VPN kill switch is unavailable on Android, and the iOS app doesn’t support the kill
switch nor split
tunneling.

On the plus side, one subscription allows 10 devices to be connected simultaneously,
which is an improvement over many rivals. Proton VPN is also well designed and easy to
use,
even for novices. The Profiles function is especially appealing, as it allows users to
customize connections according to preference.
And a sweeping update in May 2022, which included the rebranding of ProtonVPN to Proton
VPN, is set to address some of the negatives detailed above.
Proton’s CEO Andy Yen mentions plans for more applications and a browser extension in
the coming months. So it’s fair to say that the company is intent on meeting customer
demand.

    Can Proton VPN Guarantee Fast Speeds?

Yes, they can! While not the quickest VPN out there, Proton performs admirably well on
speed tests. Combining the unique VPN Accelerator technology with 10Gbps servers in over
60 countries, customers can enjoy lightning speeds when streaming and torrenting. And
those who prefer gaming are sure to be satisfied, too, as ping tests reveal minimal
latency.
Speeds remain high and consistent across both long and short distances.

Is Proton the Most Secure VPN in the Business?

The brand certainly has the credentials and the
experience to
back up such claims. For starters, Proton is built on transparency, with open-source
software available on all platforms.
And it is one of the few companies to undergo independent, no-logs audits, clearing the
latest inspection in April 2022 with flying colors. Proton’s location in Switzerland is
also a
significant advantage, as the nation is not part of the EU or the 14 Eyes alliance and
is known for its stringent privacy laws.
Besides such benefits, Proton VPN employs the following features to safeguard users in
the digital world:

  • 1. Encryption: Industry-standard AES-256 for traffic, 4096-bit RSA for key
    exchange,
    HMAC with SHA 384 for message authentication
  • 2. Protocols: IKEv2/IPSec, OpenVPN, WireGuard
  • 3. Leak blocking: DNS and IPv6 leak blocking to ensure no data escapes the
    tunnel
  • 4. Kill switch and Always-On: The kill switch blocks traffic on connection loss,
    and
    the Always-On function automatically reconnects to a server
  • 5. NetShield: Adblocker that also protects against malware and trackers
  • 6 .Perfect Forward Secrecy: Prevents encrypted information from capture and
    decryption
  • 7. Tor over VPN: Access to onion sites with anonymity provided by the Tor
    network
  • 8. Split tunneling: Opt to exclude various connections from the VPN tunnel

  • Is Proton VPN Affordable?

To answer that, let’s first take a look at the fees for the
standard Proton VPN package:

  • One month: €9.99 per month
  • 12 months: €5.99 per month
  • Two years: €4.99 per month

While the monthly and yearly costs are pretty
standard, Proton’s two-year plan is substantially higher than some of the best VPNs on
the market.
The company also offers an Unlimited bundle, which includes the VPN service, plus Proton
Mail, Drive, and Calendar, for a few dollars more each month. A 30-day money-back
guarantee
is available and a variety of payment methods, such as credit cards, cryptocurrencies,
cash, and bank transfers, provide accessibility and anonymity for customers.

  • Streaming, Torrenting and Round-the-Clock Support

Is Proton VPN a Good Option for Streaming?

Rapid speeds and the ability to unblock the
majority of platforms ensure smooth, buffer-free content for those with a Proton Plus
subscription.
Access to 10 Netflix libraries, plus BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and
many more, make Proton VPN an excellent option for streaming fans
looking to enjoy TV shows, films, and sports events from any location they choose.

And What About Torrenting?

Proton VPN does allow torrenting and has a suite
of servers specifically dedicated to P2P exchanges. The product’s enhanced security
measures and kill switch will be of comfort to
customers who frequently upload or download files. And the unlimited bandwidth removes
any data restrictions. Despite a smaller P2P server network than many competitors,
speeds are impressive, which are enhanced considerably by the fact that Proton VPN
supports port forwarding.

Does Proton VPN Offer Round-the-Clock Support?

Unfortunately not. For a premium service with a
price to match, Proton falls short in the field of customer service. Whether this will
improve as part of the rebranding is yet to be seen.
But at the moment, live chat is only available for paying members at limited times. The
support team can be contacted between 9 am and 5 pm (CET), which isn’t great for
customers
around the world, especially those in the US. Customer service can also be reached via
email or an online form. The website’s support center features plenty of information and
advice
that can be called on outside of office hours.

  • ProtonVPN Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Watertight security, advanced privacy features
  • Proven no-logs record, open-source software
  • Fast servers, unblocks 10 Netflix libraries, port forwarding
  • 10 simultaneous devices
  • Limited free version available
  • Headquartered in Switzerland
Cons
  • No browser extensions
  • Costly compared to alternatives
  • No 24/7 live chat

Our Verdict

Proton VPN is a smart choice for customers who want to focus on
privacy and protection. With fast speeds, advanced features, 10 connections, and open-source
software, this Swiss-based VPN makes an impressive all-rounder. Still, there is room for
improvement, and we would like to see Proton deliver on its promise of more apps and
expansions in the
coming year, especially for an above-average price.